A teenager who is believed to have taken ecstasy tablets has died, police have said.

The 17-year-old boy from Knowsley, Merseyside, was taken to Whiston Hospital where he died on Friday morning.

Merseyside Police said: "Early enquiries have led us to believe that he may have taken a quantity of ecstasy tablets."

His death is being treated as unexplained so far.

Police have not released the boy's name.

The force is now warning about the risks of taking illegal drugs following the boy's death.

Detective Inspector Matt Smith said: "We want people to think twice before they take drugs. It is not only illegal to buy or sell drugs, but taking illegal substances can also be very dangerous and potentially fatal.

We are warning the public of the risks of taking illegal drugs after a 17-year-old man from Knowsley died in hospital earlier today. Our early enquiries have led us to believe that he may have taken a quantity of Ecstasy tablets. Please help us raise awareness of this issue.

"People taking any form of illegal drugs don't know what's in them, where they've come from or what effects they may have on them.

"Although we do not know the full circumstances of what has happened in this tragic case and must keep an open mind, we are sufficiently concerned to feel the need to issue a warning to anyone out there thinking of taking drugs this weekend."